Kilgour Residence
Location
Bar Beach, NSW
Situated on the bluff overlooking Bar Beach, this residence faces due east and enjoys vast ocean vistas, while the Newcastle city skyline is also visible to the north. The planning of the home was therefore arranged to capitalise on its panoramic setting, providing a constant coastal narrative to the clients’ day-to-day lives.
However the context is decidedly urban, with adjacent buildings encroaching upon views from certain angles and neighbours’ existing sightlines requiring setbacks. These constraints informed the design and after developing a number of physical models, the concept for the residence settled into two main forms: a subtle, sweeping curved form supported within a solid, more rigid L-shaped masonry element.
The broad curve has been planned in a way that, when within, the eye is directed outwards, down the beach and beyond, re-orientating the building to enhance views and protect it from the unforgiving coastal environment. however, the arc transcends purpose and function, by
also bestowing the building with an exciting presence. Thus the limitations imposed by the context have fortuitously resulted in the striking visual aesthetic that the clients had hoped for.
This cantilevered curved form is further emphasized by being clad in large-format dark tiles, providing a dramatic contrast to the clean, white finish of the masonry. Spanning the northern façade, the curve contains the living spaces, plunge pool terrace and master bedroom, all of which benefit from the ample natural light and breezes provided by the north-easterly aspect.
The dining, kitchen and living areas are directed towards the east and open onto a large deck to create a spectacular venue for entertaining family and friends. The black and white colour theme of the façade is continued internally, creating an unashamedly glamorous space. A three storey bespoke spiral staircase provides an additional element of luxury and links the three levels of the residence.
